Sometimes, inspiration finds us in the most unexpected places. Recently, I came across a song I had never heard before. As I listened more deeply, I noticed how closely its message reflected the teachings of Venerable Bhikkhu Paññākāra—that peace begins within us.
While the world around us can often feel overwhelming, this message serves as a gentle reminder that real change starts from within. The way we think, respond, and treat others shapes not only our own experience, but the energy we bring into the world.
Taking a moment to pause, breathe, and return to kindness and understanding can make a meaningful difference—both within ourselves and in how we connect with others.
Sometimes, even the simplest reminders can guide us back to a place of peace. 🌿
You can follow the Walk For Peace here: (Click Here)
In a world that often feels rushed, heavy, and divided, it’s easy to get caught up in reaction instead of intention. These teachings from Venerable Bhikkhu Pannakara offer a gentle pause—a moment to step back, breathe, and remember that peace begins within each of us.
With every thought, word, and action, we have a choice. Even in just one second, we can shift from judgment to understanding, from frustration to compassion, from reaction to mindful response.
These reminders are not about perfection, but about awareness. About choosing, again and again, to bring a little more kindness into the world—starting with ourselves.
May these words meet you where you are and offer a small moment of peace today 🤍
It took me a little while, but here are my cherished memories from the Venerable Monks’ Walk for Peace. I’m so grateful I was able to see them throughout the day. A peacefulness just overtakes you when you’re in their presence—their energy is incredibly calming.
I hope their message of peace resonates with everyone who heard them and inspires us to practice their teachings daily and strive to be better people. I know their teachings have already made a difference in my life. If enough of us choose positive change moving forward, it truly can make a difference.
I’m in awe of the monks and their fortitude. I was out there for 12 hours—walking, standing, waiting, and thankfully sitting at the end—and I went home in a lot of pain. Yet they have continued for 110 days, even through harsh weather and personal challenges. I learned that one of the monks—the one with the infectious smile—lost his toenails at the start of the walk, yet kept going despite the pain. I truly don’t know how they do it.
My friend Jess met up with me at the Lincoln Memorial, and I’m so grateful we were able to share that moment. The only thing that made me a little sad was not getting to see Aloka. I had to leave early to walk to GW for the meditation event, and he wasn’t there. I hope to visit their temple in Fort Worth, TX, someday and meet him in person.
It was absolutely worth it. I would do it all again. I’m so thankful for them and hope they continue touching souls and making a difference in this world.
February 11, 2026 – Day 109
Follow the Venerable Monks on their FB page: Click Here
Photo Credit: Aloka The Peace Dog Facebook Page (Click photo to visit page)
Today is a very special day — it marks 100 days of the Buddhist monks’ Walk for Peace, and they reached City Hall in Richmond, Virginia as part of this incredible journey. Because Virginia is my home state, this milestone means so much to me on a personal level.
The walk, which began in Fort Worth, Texas, is led by Venerable Bhikkhu Pannakara, who along with his fellow monks has been walking over 2,300 miles toward Washington, D.C. to spread peace, compassion, unity, and loving-kindness.
One of the beautiful intentions the monks share each day is a simple, heartfelt affirmation:
“Today is going to be my peaceful day.”
When I first saw a post about this walk on Facebook, I kept scrolling — not really paying attention. But on January 5th, something changed. I stopped. I watched. And what I found has truly changed me.
Since following their journey more closely, I’ve noticed something profound in myself:
✨ I’m calmer. ✨ I’m more at peace. ✨ I’m less quick to anger.
Their daily reflections and the steady rhythm of their walk brings such a sense of calm that stays with me throughout my day. It’s amazing how something so quiet — so simple — can reshape your inner world.
And then there’s Aloka 🐾 — the beloved peace dog who walks beside them. I had no idea I could feel so much love for a dog I’ve never met, but Aloka’s calm presence and gentle spirit fill my heart every time I see him in a video or photo.
These past few days haven’t been easy for the monks. They’ve faced snow, harsh winter weather, and freezing temperatures along their route. Even when one of the monks fell sick, he kept walking with determination and devotion to their mission. Their resilience deeply humbles me.
I am in awe of their courage, their calm strength, and their commitment to peace. I wish them continued good health, ease on the road ahead, and joyful hearts as they walk ever closer to Northern Virginia and Washington, D.C. — and I truly hope I’ll get to see them in person at some point along the way.
If you are someone who is seeking peace — inner peace, calmness, or a gentle reminder of what matters most — I encourage you to follow their journey too. Let their quiet courage inspire a peaceful intention in your own day.
Click here ==> https://bit.ly/CNNGrief for a great article from CNN Health. “That uncomfortable coronavirus feeling: It could be grief” By Marnie Hunter.
Repost. If you have or care for infants and use a sling please go to and read the article below. It warns how a sling can cause a baby to suffocate! Please be careful when using one parents/ caregivers.
We will all have our “blue” days, it’s part of life; however we should strive to live a happy life and not wallow in our misery. This was a great read:
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